By Jim Emerson
SAN LEANDRO, CA — Multiple charges have been filed against a drywall finisher who allegedly
attempted to kill three San Leandro police officers. The suspect, 40 year old Reynaldo F. Melendez-Espinoz, of San Leandro, remains in custody ineligible for release on bond, pending a plea hearing on March 3rd.
Melendez-Esinoz allegedly began shooting at police attempting a traffic stop, following a
report of domestic violence. The incident occurred on February 16, according to a prepared
statement from the Alameda County District Attorney’s Office, “Melendez was driving a
vehicle matching the description of a vehicle used during a domestic violence incident in a
Walmart parking lot.”
Officers placed Melendez-Espinoz under arrest on February 17 at 12:42 a.m. He was booked
into Alameda County Santa Rita Jail. On February 26, the district attorney’s office released a
prepared statement describing some of his charges.
Melendez-Espinoz faces three counts for attempted murder using a semi-automatic firearm
and three counts of assault on officers. Other charges include possession of a firearm by a felon and unlawful firearm activity. He faces additional charges for allegedly using a vehicle as
a deadly weapon, and charges for child abuse. His charges also include enhancements for
use of gun, and a prior conviction.
If convicted of all charges for the February 16 incident, Melendez-Esponiz faces a sentence
of 50 years to life in prison. Incidentally, Melendez-Espinoz was convicted of battery in May
2017 and sentenced to probation. He also has prior arrests on his record involving domestic
violence in October 2022 and September 2023.
